Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Science

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swinburne University of Technology

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) at Swinburne is a unique 5-year double degree that combines scientific expertise with legal know-how. It’s perfect for curious and ambitious students who want to work at the crossroads of science and law — whether that’s in biotechnology regulation, patent law, or groundbreaking research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll lay the groundwork in both law and science. You’ll explore foundational legal concepts like Introduction to Australian Law, Torts 1, and Contract Law 1, while building your science base with Concepts of Biology, Chemistry 1, and Foundations of Statistics. This mix gives you the essential tools to think like both a scientist and a lawyer.

Year 2:
Year two deepens your understanding. In law, you’ll study Criminal Law and Procedure and Evidence, honing your analytical skills. In science, units like Energy and Motion and Concepts of Biotechnology introduce practical lab techniques and core biochemistry concepts, helping you connect theory with real-world applications.

Year 3:
By the third year, you’ll tackle more advanced topics. Legal units like Administrative Law, Federal and State Constitutional Law, and Property Law challenge your problem-solving and reasoning. Meanwhile, science courses like Introduction to Chemistry and advanced biochemistry electives enhance your research and lab capabilities.

Year 4:
In Year four, your law studies become more specialised, with units such as Trade Marks and Related Rights, Copyright, and Patents and Designs, which are particularly relevant if you want to focus on intellectual property in science. Your science learning continues with advanced biochemistry topics and opportunities to work on industry-linked projects.

Year 5:
The final year brings everything together. Legal units like Company Law, Civil Procedure, and Alternative Dispute Resolution prepare you for professional practice, while science projects allow you to apply biochemistry knowledge to real-world challenges. By the end of the year, you’ll have a unique skill set that blends scientific expertise with legal insight.

Focus Areas

Biochemistry and molecular science, legal reasoning and advocacy, intellectual property law, scientific regulation, research methods, professional ethics.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with strong scientific investigation and lab skills, a deep understanding of Australian legal systems, the ability to analyse problems from both scientific and legal perspectives, and practical experience through projects and placements.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The law component meets the requirements of the Victorian Legal Admissions Board, while the science component is recognised for professional relevance in chemistry and biochemistry, giving you credibility in both fields.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Swinburne is highly regarded for both law and science, with strong graduate outcomes, employability, and career prospects in areas like biotech law, research, and consultancy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Swinburne, this double degree isn’t just about reading textbooks — it’s about doing and experiencing both science and law firsthand. You’ll spend time in modern labs experimenting with real biochemical techniques, tackle authentic legal scenarios through mock advocacy exercises, and take on projects connected to industry. From analysing DNA to preparing a case for court, every step is designed to build your practical skills, confidence, and professional know-how.

Here’s how you’ll get hands-on experience throughout your degree:

Science labs that feel like the real world: You’ll work in industry-standard labs, handling microorganisms, enzymes, and DNA, using the same equipment you’d find in professional research or biotech companies.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Industry-linked projects and placements let you apply your science and law knowledge in real-world contexts, helping you gain experience employers value.
Internships and placements: You’ll have the chance to work with legal firms, biotech companies, or research institutions, giving you practical exposure while building your CV and professional network.
Legal practice exercises: Mock courts, advocacy workshops, and practical assignments help you understand how law is practiced in real settings.
Advanced research facilities: Access to specialized science and biotechnology equipment, plus opportunities to connect with research teams and industry projects, means you can dive deeper into your areas of interest.
Libraries and learning resources: Campus libraries, digital tools, and supportive study spaces provide everything you need to research, collaborate, and grow academically.

These experiences ensure that by the time you graduate, you’re not only knowledgeable in science and law but also confident in applying those skills in professional environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this double degree are well-equipped to step into careers that sit at the crossroads of science and law, giving you a unique edge. You could work as a lawyer, legal counsel, forensic scientist, or scientific policy advisor — roles where your combined expertise makes you stand out:

Tailored career support: Swinburne’s Careers & Employability Team will guide you every step of the way, from perfecting your resume to interview coaching, LinkedIn advice, and connecting you with employers in both legal and scientific fields.
Strong graduate outcomes: Most Swinburne graduates find full-time work within months, showing just how valuable your practical experiences and work-integrated learning really are. Graduates can expect to earn between AUD 70,000 and AUD 95,000 per annum.
Industry connections: The university partners with organisations in law, science, and biotechnology, giving you internships, project opportunities, and direct links to employers.
Accreditation that counts: Your law studies meet the academic requirements for admission to legal practice in Australia, while your science major aligns with professional standards in biochemistry — giving your career long-term credibility.
Versatile career paths: Whether you want to join a law firm, work in scientific research, advise on biotech policy, or help companies navigate complex regulations, this degree provides the foundation to pursue a wide range of careers.

Further Academic Progression:

After graduating, there are lots of ways to keep learning and strengthen your career. You could complete Professional Legal Training (PLT) to become a fully qualified lawyer, pursue a master’s in biotechnology or intellectual property law, or even continue with research through honours or a PhD. Each option builds on your dual skill set, opening doors to specialised roles in both science and law.